Short Term Rentals Project

Over the last few years, the RDEK has heard an increase in public concern regarding short term rental accommodations (STRs).

The RDEK Board has recognized that pursuing management options of STRs is desirable and as a result public consultation, issue identification and management options for STRs was identified as a 2021 strategic priority.

PROJECT UPDATE: April 11, 2022

• On Friday, the RDEK Board of Directors approved the regulation of Short Term Rentals (STRs) in our six Electoral Areas.
• The Board voted to proceed with regulating STRs via Temporary Use Permits (TUPs).
• This triggers a new, detailed planning process that will outline the development and implementation of the TUPs.
• There will be additional consultation with the public through this next phase of the project.
• Staff will now begin laying out an expected timeline to complete the work and bring the recommendations back before the Board.
• Regulations will not be introduced prior to 2023

PROJECT UPDATE: March 11, 2022

Over the past few months, a great deal of work has been undertaken by staff on the STR project including:

• Staff combined forces and through the Housing Needs Assessment planning project, data was purchased to determine the number, approximate location and revenue generated of known short term rentals throughout the Regional District. A summary of this data will be included in staff’s Request for Decision on the April 7^th Planning Committee agenda.
• Research was conducted on how other Regional District’s and Municipalities managed STRs.
• Discussions were held with fellow Planners from Regional Districts throughout BC and within local Municipalities to discuss STRs.
• Staff have participated in numerous peer-to-peer meetings & webinars regarding STRs.
• There has been consultation with property management companies and representatives from community associations.

WHAT ARE THE RDEK'S OPTIONS IN REGULATING STRs?

1. Zoning Amendments
   The RDEK could amend current zoning bylaws to regulate STRs. A zoning bylaw may regulate the use, location, size, and density of the land, building and other structures. If zoning was used to address STRs the size and location of the STR, number of bedrooms and guests, and parking requirements could be addressed.
   
   
2. Temporary Use Permits
   Temporary Use Permits (TUPs) allow the RDEK to permit uses not otherwise allowed within their zoning bylaws. A TUP can specify conditions under which the proposed use can be carried on and can allow and regulate the construction of buildings or structures in respect of the use for which the permit is issued. A TUP requires approval from the Board. A TUP can be authorized for up to three years with the option to renew once for an additional three years.
   
   
3. Order in Council – Business Licences
   The RDEK could request an Order in Council from the Province. This Order would grant the RDEK additional powers to make bylaws respecting the licencing of businesses and regulating the carrying on of businesses within the RDEK. The Order in Council would address short term rental use as well as other commercial uses within the RDEK.

All three options will require additional public consultation. Depending on which option the Board selects, there will be requirements to amend existing bylaws as well as the potential for the creation of new bylaws.

WHAT IS A SHORT TERM RENTAL?

STRs refers to the accommodation of paying guests in an entire single family dwelling, room(s) within a single family dwelling, secondary suite, apartment or condo for less than 30 days.